In Loving Memory of Anderson Watson

Anderson Watson was born on May 9, 1936, at Coney Island Hospital in Brooklyn, New York to John and Lelia Watson. At the age of four, he moved to Farmville, Virginia, where he was lovingly raised by his grandmother. He attended Prince Edward County Public Schools before returning to New York City in 1956, where he would spend most of the remainder of his life. He later earned his GED in Brooklyn and began a lifetime defined by hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

Throughout his life, Anderson was known as a hardworking man. He took pride in providing for his family. He held several jobs over the years. He worked in a candy factory, spent many years as a cab driver before beginning his long-term career with the New York City Transit Authority. As a Power Distribution Maintainer, often referred to as a "third railman," he dedicated 34 years of service to keeping the city's transit system running safely and reliably. He worked tirelessly throughout his life, believing that caring for and providing for his family was one of his most important responsibilities. He believed strongly in the value of honest work.

Anderson was not a man who sought the spotlight. As his brother, John "Shorty" Watson, often recalled, he preferred the comfort of home over going out. That home became a lasting part of his legacy. In 1969, Anderson purchased his house at 1510 Putnam Avenue in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn. For nearly six decades, that house was more than a place to live—it was a gathering place for family, friends, and neighbors. During a time when block parties brought neighborhoods together, the Watson home was often filled with laughter, food, music, and fellowship. Holiday gatherings welcomed not only relatives but also friends who were treated like family. The doors were always open, and countless memories were made within those walls.

Many of his children's friends came to know Anderson as a father figure. He helped guide and shape the lives of numerous young men, teaching them responsibility, discipline, respect, and what it meant to become a man. To this day, many still speak of him not simply as a friend's father, but as "Dad."

To those who knew him, Anderson's personality was larger than life. He was strong, disciplined, and carried a voice that could be heard throughout the house and beyond. He was a strict father, but his expectations came from a place of love. He wanted his children to grow up with strong morals, a solid work ethic, respect for others, and the strength to face life's challenges. The values he instilled continue to live on through his family.

Strength was one of the qualities that defined him. He was an avid weightlifter and dedicated gym member long before fitness became popular. His commitment to physical fitness left a lasting impression on his family. His children and grandchildren continue that tradition today, carrying forward the values of discipline, perseverance, and strength that he demonstrated throughout his life.

Above all, Anderson was devoted to his family. He was first married to Ida D. Allen, with whom he shared five children. Later, he shared 34 years of love, companionship, and marriage with his beloved wife, Judy Watson. Throughout his life, family remained at the center of who he was, and the relationships he built left a lasting impact on those who knew and loved him.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Judy Watson; his children, Andy Watson Jr., Joseph Watson, Albert Watson, and Brenda Watson; 15 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Yvonne Alexis, his grandson Patrick Alexis, his parents, John and Lelia Watson; his sisters, Elizabeth and Maybel Watson; and his brother, John "Shorty" Watson.

Though Anderson's voice is now silent, the lessons he taught, the home he built, and the love he shared remain with those who knew him. His strength, determination, and dedication to family will continue to inspire future generations.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.